Napoli ready Reina replacement

Napoli are apparently close to a deal for Catania’s Mariano Andujar, to replace Pepe Reina come next summer.

Napoli are apparently close to a deal for Catania’s Mariano Andujar, to replace Pepe Reina come next summer.

Liverpool-owned Reina is increasingly expected to depart the Stadio San Paolo at the end of his season-long loan, with Barcelona continually linked as his destination from 2014-15.

Working to this hypothesis, the Partenopei are believed to have already found his replacement in the form of Catania’sAndujar.

The Gazzettadello Sport today report that Napoli have agreed a €1.5m deal to take the Argentine shot-stopper now, whilst it is understood that the 30-year-old has arrived in Naples to undergo a medical ahead of signing a three-year contract.

It is believed that Andujar, who has lost his place in Sicily of late to Alberto Frison, will then be sent out on loan for the rest of this season, either through staying with Catania or joining another club, with Real Betis suggested.

Then, in Reina’s anticipated exit next summer, Andujar will return to Napoli to act as deputy to Rafael from next term.